Week 12: vs Kentucky (Nov. 29th)
Kentucky enters the 2025 season with a projected win total of 4.5, following a disappointing 4-8 (1-7 SEC) campaign last year. It was a tough season for head coach Mark Stoops, who now looks to regroup and rebuild. One area of focus is the offense, where graduate transfer quarterback Zach Calzada brings a glimmer of hope. Though he arrives from Incarnate Word, Calzada has prior SEC experience and will need to quickly adjust to the speed and physicality of the league once again.
With an upgraded quarterback room and renewed emphasis on solidifying the offensive line, there’s cautious optimism that the Wildcats can take a step forward. One game already circled on the schedule is the Governor’s Cup matchup against Louisville. After falling to the Cardinals last season, Kentucky will be eager for revenge.
However, if the season unfolds as many predict, Louisville should be in position to take care of business once again. For the Cardinals, the formula is simple: take care of the football, control the clock, and execute efficiently. Do that, and they’ll likely claim their second straight win in the rivalry.
Prediction: W (10-2) Louisville 41 - Kentucky 10